Ahmedabad: As the monsoon intensified in the state, particularly in the Saurashtra and South Gujarat regions, the Commissioner of Schools issued a circular empowering the district education officers (DEOs) to declare school holidays in rain-affected areas to ensure students' safety.

The advisory was issued as several districts in Saurashtra received more than 10 inches of rainfall in the last 48 hours, leading to severe waterlogging in low-lying areas. With the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting heavy to moderate rain across the state for the next few days, district officials were asked to remain alert. The govt directed the DEOs to assess local conditions and consult with district collectors and disaster management authorities before making any decision regarding school closures.

If the local situation was deemed hazardous due to flooding, road blockages, or other weather-related risks, DEOs were authorised to suspend classes. Any such decision, the circular stated, must be swiftly communicated to all schools to avoid confusion. The education department also directed officials to strictly follow instructions issued by the revenue department or local administration. The govt urged officials to remain vigilant and act decisively if the situation worsens. The monsoon, which intensified in the state, is likely to bring rain to many parts of the state over the next few days.